Day Two In 'Mandu

Watched the sunrise from our balcony and listened to the city slowly get louder as it woke up while drinking coffee. W headed out early to Durbar square and meandered through the temples.

The polarity was crazy. It's like everything was sacred and nothing was sacred. Everyone was praying at the alters, making offerings to their gods and also dumping their trash, spitting, and riding motorcycles at high speeds, and parking their cars nearly on top of the temples.

We had breakfast on top of a five story building overlooking the city with a magnificent view then walked back to our hotel to reboot.

We spent the afternoon buying all the clothes we ever wanted - I hope. We will be mailing some of it back along with some clothes we realize we don't want to carry any longer.

Location:Kathmandu

First Night in Nepal

Roamed around Thamel (suburb of Kathmandu) just trying to acclimate to the area. Small streets with pedestrians, bikes, motorcycles, and cars pushing and honking to push through the small areas. Overwhelming - yes! Exciting - yes!

We are staying at Kathmandu Prince Hotel in Chhetrapati on the fringe of Thamel. We paid the extra for a room with a balcony making it an expensive $22 an night. The staff is super friendly.

When out and had dinner at a rooftop restaurant, Festival Restaurant, overlooking the chaos. We ordered a couple of dishes based on the price and we were shocked at how much food shows for for a $3 meal. It was absolutely delicious.

Managed to get lost wandering the streets back to the hotel. Didn't have a map but it wouldn't matter since there are no street signs. It was not stressful as I love getting lost in new places. Found our way home eventually.

Location:Kathmandu

Can't post Pics

I'm having technology issues getting pictures off the camera onto the iPad thus online. Hope to get this fixed on this trip cuz I'm getting good shot I'd love to share.

Kathmandu the Import Store Megamart

What more can I say outside of the title. Everything I ever wanted is here. Shopping spree is inevitable.

Location:Kathmandu Nepal

Four Countries in Four Days

China, Thailand, India, and Nepal. Ready to stay put for a bit... or rather start walking.

Driving in Delhi

It would be nothing new to write about the insanity that exists on the streets in the places we are going. I've witnessed it before (and even dared driving myself) in places like Egypt, Turkey, and Morocco yet so far Delhi takes the cake.

Yes, the most important navigational tool it the horn. Yes, they squeeze the vehicle in the tightest spots. Yes the speeds are inappropriate. Yes, my palms were sweaty and I was laughing (partially nervous partially fun excitement) like I do when I'm on a roller coaster.

I noticed that most cars did not have side mirrors and the ones that did were pulled in to allow for six more inches of "squeeze by" room. This makes every spot on the road a blind spot. No need to use turn signals if you don't care if anyone is next to or behind you.

Taxis are more expensive than the 3 wheel motor rickshaws, but I guess I need to get use to it before I have the courage to take one.

Location:Delhi India

Flying Over the Himalayas

Getting an amazing view of the Himalayas on our flight into Nepal. Such a stunning sight. Thinking of my dad who would love to see this.